Juniperus occidentalis (Western Juniper)
Michael's Opinion
Juniperus occidentalis is widely seen in western landscapes on mountainsides. Over the past 150 years the Western Juniper has been documented to have covered over 42 million acres. Its grey-green colour and thick trunk makes it a perfect candidate to thrive in the harsh conditions found in this environment.
Botanical Information
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Juniperus |
| Species | occidentalis |
| Category | Woody |
| Type | Tree (evergreen) |
| References | "The Green World Forestry". Catherine L. Raven, Chelsea House Publishing 132 West New York Bean. W. "Trees and Shrubs Hardy in Great Britain". Vol 1 - 4 and Supplement, Murray 1981 |
| Origin | Native to the western United States of America. |
| Ethnobotanical Uses Disclaimer | Its wood is used for a wide range of commercial products such as wood panelling, interior studs, particle board, veneer and plywood. |
Details
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 6a - 9b |
| USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
| Canadian Hardiness Zone | 5a |
| Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
| RHS Hardiness Zone | H7 - H3 |
| RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
| Temperature (°C) | (-21) - (-1) |
| Temperature (°F) | (-5) - 30 |
| Height | 10 m |
| Spread | 8 m |
| Growth | Slow |
| Flowering Period | April, May |
Description and Growing Information
| ID Characteristic | Stiff looking upturned branches with a thick chunky trunk, often the crown is divided into 2 or 3 thick forks presenting a broader look. |
| Shape | Rounded. |
| Cultivation | Well drained, moist soils. Is very drought tolerant and can succeed in hot dry climates. |
| Habitat | The western mountains in Western Oregon, Nevada, Idaho, California and Eastern Washington. |
| Bark/Stem Description | Mature bark is thin, furrowed and has an almost shredded look, a greyish brown colour. |
| Flower/Leaf Bud Description | Cones are yellow and small, ovate located at the end of the branches. |
| Leaf Description | Short, pale, ashy-green scale like leaves, arranged in opposite decussate pairs of 3, reaching 5-10 mm in length. Each leaf is distinctly marked with a white glandular pit on its back. |
| Fruit Description | Berries are blueish-black with a glaucous finish, berries hold 1-4 brown berries. |
| Colour Description | Pale-light green foliage colour that does not change throughout the year. |
| Texture Description | Coarse texture. |
Photographs
Juniperus occidentalis 'Filiformis'.